Dorian Yates breaks down why he believes volume is less important than intensity.
Dorian Yates built a career on the bodybuilding stage that puts his name with the best of all-time. Since his retirement, Yates has stayed in great shape while watching the sport he competed in evolve. Recently, he discussed the difference between volume and quality in the gym.
“It’s all about quality and intensity and getting every little bit out of that set that you can get and you don’t need to do more sets, more volume. Volume is nothing.”
From 1992-1997, Yates did not lose a competition and racked up six-consecutive Olympia titles. Following his final victory on the biggest stage, Yates retired from bodybuilding after suffering different injuries. In retirement, Yates has maintained a shredded physique while sharing his wisdom in the gym.
Yates took to Instagram to discuss how one intense set will do more for muscle growth than more sets of higher volume.
Dorian Yates: “Do One Set And You Will Get Growth”
Dorian Yates became known for his insane back during his bodybuilding career. He knows a thing or two about growth and discussed what it takes during workouts.
“It’s a little frustrating that people who don’t understand the concept will dismiss it outright without truly trying it. Like I’ve set before; why not increase volume to 50 or 100 sets? How many sets are needed?
In my opinion, just one all-out set to and sometimes beyond failure is what’s needed.”
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Yates continued to discuss how one set of quality, intense reps will do more to grow muscles than 50 with high volume.
“You can get a 10-pound dumbbell and do volume all day but it won’t make your arms grow, no matter how much volume you do. If you get whatever your max is and do one set and you would get growth.”
Dorian Yates decided to size down after his bodybuilding career as many other athletes often do. The five-time Mr. Olympia switched his focus from lifting heavy to healing his body. Utilizing holistic methods of training, most prominently yoga, Yates was able to regain flexibility in his body which healed a great deal of his aches and pains. Yoga at its most advanced isn’t for the faint of heart, yet Yates has mastered the art and has made it a staple in his training.
The fact remains that Yates still knows how to build muscle and is an inspiring voice to listen to if you want to get the best results.
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